Lae’s Vali dedicates try to family, Papuan Compound

LAE Tigers winger Max Vali dedicated his maiden grand final try in their 16-10 Digicel Cup win over Waghi Tumbe to his family and the Papuan Compound community in the Morobe capital.
The rugby union convert scored the Tigers’ second try in the 15th minute through a line break and set by centre Lynol Molpoya which helped Tigers earned their fourth title on Sunday.
He told The National that he was grateful for the support from his family and his community.
“The first time I joined rugby league, I wasn’t well versed with a lot of things,” Vali said.
“But the senior players in the team were very helpful and patient with me in teaching me the basics of attack and defence.
“This is my debut season in rugby league, my first time to reach the grand final and to score a try in it.
“It’s a very happy moment for me to reach the grand final and perform well.
“I dedicate the try and the win to my family and supporters back home.
“Without their support, I wouldn’t have come this far.
“My mother and my small brother flew in to watch the match so this try and this medal is for my family and for the Papuan Compound.”
When asked what his plans after the Digicel Cup was, Vali said he would re-join his rugby union club Papuan Compound Ravens for next month’s the Sports Tok Sevens tournament at Bava Park in Port Moresby.